Sir Terry Wogan dies aged 77 after battling cancer

Sir Terry Wogan with his wife Lady Helen, after the radio and television presenter collected his knighthood from Queen Elizabeth II during an investiture ceremony at Buckingham Palace. The veteran broadcaster has died aged 77 following a short illness.

Ian Day

Sir Terry Wogan has died aged 77 after suffering from cancer, the BBC has announced.

"Sir Terry Wogan died today after a short but brave battle with cancer. He passed away surrounded by his family. While we understand he will be missed by many, the family ask that their privacy is respected at this time," the Wogan family statement said.

Sir Terry Wogan with Pudsey the bear during a Children in Need photo call, as the veteran broadcaster has died aged 77 following a short illness.

BBC Director General Tony Hall described Sir Terry, who was born in Limerick, as a "national treasure".

He said: "Terry truly was a national treasure. Today we've lost a wonderful friend. He was a lovely, lovely man and our thoughts are with his wife and family.

"For 50 years Sir Terry graced our screens and airwaves. His warmth, wit and geniality meant that for millions he was a part of the family.

"Wake up to Wogan was for millions of Radio 2 listeners the very best way to start the day. For decades he's been such a huge part of the BBC on television and radio and leaves so many wonderful memories.

Sir Terry Wogan with his wife Lady Helen, after the radio and television presenter collected his knighthood from Queen Elizabeth II during an investiture ceremony at Buckingham Palace. The veteran broadcaster has died aged 77 following a short illness.

"At the centre of Children In Need since its beginning he raised hundreds of millions of pounds and changed so many lives for the better. He leaves a remarkable legacy."

Prime Minister David Cameron tweeted: "My thoughts are with Terry Wogan's family. Britain has lost a huge talent - someone millions came to feel was their own special friend.

"I grew up listening to him on the radio and watching him on TV. His charm and wit always made me smile."

Sir Terry Wogan sampling an oyster at a reception in 1973 to celebrate the opening of the oyster season at Scott's restaurant in London, as the veteran broadcaster has died aged 77 following a short illness.